favorite picks from Cache Valley Family Magazine

The world is a diverse place that is packed full of people living dramatically different lives, even within the same neighborhood or classroom. Teaching children to appreciate and celebrate this diversity is a top priority in our homes, and we hope it is in yours, too. One great way to introduce and reinforce these valuable lessons is age-appropriate books. There are enough books on the subject to fill library shelves, but here are some of our favorites:

THE SKIN YOU LIVE IN

by Michael J. Tyler

A great pick about race is The Skin You Live In, written specifically for little kids. It is a rhyming book that celebrates all different skin colors — from “butterscotch gold” to “cookie dough rolled” — it makes a point to reinforce the message that the person within is what matters, not how someone looks on the outside. The illustrations are charming and brightly colored.

ALL ARE WELCOME

by Alexandra Penfold

This book depicts a day in the life of kids at their school. They come from a wide range of cultures, and share those cultures with each other through food (at lunch), music, art, and stories. The book shows how these differences are their community’s strength. Not only are different cultures and races represented, but there are also kids with disabilities and a variety of family configurations shown.

THIS IS HOW WE DO IT: ONE DAY IN THE LIVES OF SEVEN KIDS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

by Matt Lamothe

Captivating for both kids and adults alike, this book follows a day in the life of seven kids from around the world and from very different cultures: Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia. The characters in this gorgeously illustrated book are based on real kids from each of the countries. Showing their experiences from morning to night, it shows how children in different cultures play, eat, and spend time with families, offering a new appreciation for people around the world.

FAMILIES, FAMILIES, FAMILIES

by Suzanne and Max Lang

Families, Families, Families is a charming rhyming book for preschoolers that celebrates families, no matter what form they take. The fun illustrations depict silly animals in framed “family pictures.” The story mentions adoption, step-siblings, kids being raised by grandparents, and animals of all shapes, sizes, and colors. The overarching theme is that if you love each other, you are a family, a message that is important for children and adults alike.

LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET

by Matt De La Pena

A Newbery and Caldecott winner, this book follows a little boy as he rides the bus with his grandmother after church. As he comments (and sometimes complains) about their community (Why doesn’t he have an iPod? Why do they have to go through the “dirty” part of town?), she lovingly chastises him and points out the beauty of the world around them.